George Kittle and the Ban on Smelling Salts in the NFL
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle interrupted an interview of his teammate Fred Warner on NFL Network to express his discontent with a recent league decision. Kittle burst onto the set to “express a complaint” about the ban on the use of ammonia and smelling salts before and during NFL games, according to a memo the league sent to teams on Tuesday morning. The measure prohibits teams from “providing or supplying ammonia in any form,” including ammonia capsules, inhalers, ammonia in a cup, and any type of “smelling salts.” The ban applies to the entire match, including pre-game activities and halftime, as well as in the locker room and on the sidelines.
Kittle, visibly affected, revealed that he is a regular user of smelling salts, using them to get an energy boost before each offensive series. “I already miss them,” he commented. The player, jokingly, even considered the possibility of retiring due to the ban. “I considered retiring,” said Kittle, “We have to find a middle ground here, guys. Someone to help me. Someone to propose a good idea. That was all I had to say. I had to get it out.”In 2024, the FDA issued a warning to companies that produce commercially available ammonia inhalants (AI), as well as consumers regarding the purchase and use of AI, regarding the lack of evidence supporting the safety or efficacy of AIs marketed to improve mental alertness or increase energy. The FDA noted potential negative effects of using AI. AIs also have the potential to mask certain neurological signs and symptoms, including some possible signs of concussion.
NFL Memorandum
